After a long day of juggling work and family, there’s nothing quite like the satisfying crunch and flavor explosion of a homemade chicken chow mein. With every bite, you feel transported to your favorite Asian bistro, but the best part? This dish comes together in just 25 minutes—perfect for those busy weeknights when takeout is usually the go-to option.
I first fell in love with this takeout classic years ago when a friend invited me for dinner. The mouthwatering aroma of sautéed garlic and ginger still lingers in my memory, and since then, I’ve been perfecting my own take on this dish. Trust me, you’ll want to keep this recipe close because it’s not only delicious, but it also allows you to pack in colors and nutrients with those vibrant mixed vegetables.
So gather your ingredients, and let’s dive into this easy, crowd-pleasing chicken chow mein recipe that’ll satisfy your cravings without the guilt of fast food. You deserve a homemade meal that’s both delightful and full of flavor!
Why You'll Love This Chicken Chow Mein
- This Chicken Chow Mein is incredibly easy to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights.
- Packed with vibrant vegetables and flavorful chicken, each bite is a delicious burst of taste that will transport you to your favorite Asian restaurant.
- The dish is highly versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite ingredients or whatever you have on hand.
- Not only does it appeal to the whole family, but its beautiful array of colors also makes it visually stunning and perfect for serving to guests.
Chicken Chow Mein Ingredients
For the Noodles
• Chow mein noodles – Ideal for achieving that perfect chewy texture; feel free to substitute with rice noodles if desired.
For the Chicken
• Chicken breast – A lean protein source that cooks quickly and stays tender; you can swap it for tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
• Mixed vegetables – A colorful combo of bell peppers, carrots, and bean sprouts adds essential nutrients and crunch; switch up the veggies based on your preferences!
For the Flavor
• Soy sauce – Brings a savory depth to the dish; low-sodium soy sauce works well if you’re watching your salt intake.
• Garlic – Adds a fragrant aroma and rich flavor; minced or pressed fresh garlic delivers the best taste.
• Ginger – Brightens up the dish with a zesty kick; use freshly grated ginger for more intense flavor.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; remember to taste as you go, balancing their flavors for your perfect chicken chow mein!
For Cooking
• Vegetable oil – Helps achieve a nice sear on your chicken and vegetables; opt for sesame oil for an extra layer of flavor.
How to Make Chicken Chow Mein
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Cook the Noodles: Begin by boiling water and cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions. They should be tender yet firm, around 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
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Heat the Oil: In a large pan or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. This will ensure a nice sear on the chicken and veggies.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden, being careful not to burn them.
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Cook the Chicken: Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until the chicken is browned and cooked through, with no pink remaining.
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Stir-fry the Vegetables: Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes. Look for vibrant colors and a slight tender-crisp texture to keep them fresh and crunchy.
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Combine Ingredients: Fold the cooked noodles into the pan along with 3 tablespoons of soy sauce. Mix gently until everything is well combined and heated through.
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Season to Taste: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust according to your personal preference and enjoy the flavors melding together.
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Serve Hot: Transfer to plates and serve your delightful chicken chow mein hot, garnished as you like!
Optional: Drizzle with sesame oil or sprinkle with sesame seeds for an extra touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chicken Chow Mein are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can slice the chicken breast and chop your mixed vegetables up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Additionally, you can cook the chow mein noodles ahead and toss them with a little vegetable oil to prevent sticking. When you’re ready to serve, just heat oil in a pan, sauté your garlic and ginger, add the chicken and vegetables, and follow with the noodles and soy sauce for a quick finish. This method not only saves time but keeps your meal just as delicious as if you made everything from scratch!
Storage Tips for Chicken Chow Mein
Fridge: Keep any leftover chicken chow mein in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This will maintain its flavor and freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, place cooled chicken chow mein in a freezer-safe container or bag, where it can last for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight. Heat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until hot throughout, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent drying.
Room Temperature: Avoid leaving chicken chow mein out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
What to Serve with Chicken Chow Mein?
Indulge in a complete meal experience that complements the zesty, savory flavors of your chow mein dish.
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Steamed Broccoli: The vibrant green color adds a fresh touch, and its slight crunch pairs perfectly with the tender chicken and noodles.
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Spring Rolls: Crisp and filled with veggies, they offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft noodles, making for a satisfying bite.
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Egg Fried Rice: Its fluffy texture and subtle flavors enhance your chicken chow mein’s richness, creating a truly hearty meal.
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Sesame Cucumber Salad: Light and refreshing, this salad brings a cool crispy element, which balances the warm, savory flavors of your chow mein.
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Garlic Breadsticks: Soft and buttery, these are perfect for mopping up any extra sauce left on your plate, adding an indulgent touch to the meal.
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Chilled Green Tea: A soothing drink that clears the palate between bites and brings a hint of sweetness, complementing the savory chicken chow mein gracefully.
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Mango Sticky Rice: For dessert, this sweet and creamy treat contrasts the savory flavors of the chow mein, ending your meal on a delightful note.
Chicken Chow Mein Variations
Feel free to sprinkle your personality into this dish with delightful twists and swaps that will surprise your taste buds!
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Vegetarian: Replace chicken with tofu or seitan for a hearty, plant-based alternative that soaks up those savory flavors beautifully.
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Spicy Kick: Add a teaspoon of chili paste or sliced jalapeños for an exciting heat that elevates your chow mein to new fiery heights.
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Noodle Swap: Try using rice noodles or even zucchini noodles for a gluten-free or lower-carb option, allowing for a fresh twist on texture.
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Extra Crunch: Toss in some crushed peanuts or sesame seeds towards the end of cooking. This adds a delightful crunch and rich flavor that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Citrus Burst: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice over the finished dish. The zesty brightness complements the savory soy sauce, giving each bite a refreshing lift.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. Toss them in at the end for a fragrant finish that adds vibrancy and depth.
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Savory Umami: Consider adding oyster sauce or hoisin sauce along with the soy sauce. These rich sauces deepen the flavor profile and create a luscious glaze.
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Frozen Veggie Boost: When in a hurry, throw in a bag of frozen stir-fry veggies. They save time while still delivering color and nutrition in every forkful!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a perfectly chewy texture in your Chicken Chow Mein, always cook the chow mein noodles just until tender, usually around 3-5 minutes, and avoid overcooking them.
- When sautéing the garlic and ginger, keep an eye on the heat to ensure they become fragrant but do not burn, as this can impart a bitter flavor to your dish.
- Make sure your pan is sufficiently hot before adding the chicken to achieve a good sear; this will help lock in the juices and keep the chicken tender.
- Lastly, when adding soy sauce, do so towards the end of cooking to prevent it from evaporating too much, ensuring a rich, flavorful finish to your dish.
Chicken Chow Mein Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best chicken for chicken chow mein?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs that are bright pink and have no dark spots. Fresh chicken should feel firm to the touch and should not have an off smell. For a twist, consider using chicken thighs for added flavor and moisture!
What’s the best way to store leftover chicken chow mein?
You can keep leftover chicken chow mein in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s cooled down before placing it in the container to prevent condensation. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat on the stovetop for the best texture!
Can I freeze chicken chow mein, and if so, how?
Very! To freeze your chicken chow mein, first let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, removing as much air as possible. Label them with the date, and they’ll keep well for up to 2 months. To defrost, simply move it to the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
Why is my chicken chow mein too dry?
If your chow mein turns out dry, it could be due to overcooking the noodles or chicken. To avoid this next time, ensure the chicken is cooked just until no longer pink and the noodles are al dente – tender yet firm to the bite. Adding a bit more soy sauce or a splash of broth during reheating can also help restore moisture.
Can I make chicken chow mein vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make this dish vegetarian, swap the chicken for firm tofu or tempeh, which will soak up the flavors beautifully. You can also load it with more vegetables like broccoli or snap peas to maintain that vibrant color and nutrition. Enjoy experimenting!
Equipment
- large pan
- Wok
- Pot
Ingredients
For the Noodles
- 8 oz Chow mein noodles Substitute with rice noodles if desired.
For the Chicken
- 1 lb Chicken breast Can be swapped for tofu for a vegetarian option.
For the Vegetables
- 2 cups Mixed vegetables A mix of bell peppers, carrots, and bean sprouts.
For the Flavor
- 3 tbsp Soy sauce Low-sodium option works well.
- 2 cloves Garlic Minced or pressed fresh for best flavor.
- 1 tbsp Ginger Freshly grated for intense flavor.
- 1 tsp Salt To taste.
- 1 tsp Pepper To taste.
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp Vegetable oil Sesame oil can be used for more flavor.
Instructions
- Begin by boiling water and cooking the chow mein noodles according to the package instructions, about 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant and golden.
- Add the sliced chicken breast to the pan. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until browned and cooked through.
- Toss in the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes.
- Fold the cooked noodles into the pan along with the soy sauce. Mix gently until well combined.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to preference.
- Transfer to plates and serve hot, garnished as desired.
